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Full Time Suas Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Wing is looking for a sUAS Flight Operator to join our Flight Operations team for a 36-month fixed ... Pilot Records Database (PRD) consent requirements The US base salary range for this full-time ...

Live Effects Trainer

Glendale, AZ · On-site

$52K - $108K/yr

Ability to obtain an FAA Part 107 - sUAS Remote Pilot Certification within 12 months of hire date ... Full-time and part-time employees working at least 20 hours a week on a regular basis are eligible ...

Ability to obtain an FAA Part 107 - sUAS Remote Pilot Certification within 12 months of hire date ... Full-time and part-time employees working at least 20 hours a week on a regular basis are eligible ...

JEBLC, VA or Coronado, CA Employment Type: Full-Time Clearance: Must be able to meet Government ... Teach flight fundamentals and advanced piloting skills for combat and contested environments

JEBLC, VA or Coronado, CA Employment Type: Full-Time Clearance: Must be able to meet Government ... Teach flight fundamentals and advanced piloting skills for combat and contested environments

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Full Time Suas Pilot information

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do full time suas pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for full time suas pilot in the United States is $130,916.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $155,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Full Time SUAS (Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems) Pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Full Time SUAS Pilot, you need a solid understanding of aeronautics, flight operations, and regulatory compliance, typically supported by a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate from the FAA. Familiarity with drone piloting software, GPS navigation systems, and various SUAS platforms is crucial for effective operation. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for managing missions and collaborating with teams. These skills ensure safe, legal, and efficient drone operations in diverse environments.

Is there still a pilot shortage in 2026?

The airline industry continues to experience a pilot shortage, including for full-time SUAS pilots, due to increased demand for drone services and a limited supply of qualified pilots. This shortage is driven by factors such as industry growth, retirements, and the need for specialized certifications, making it a promising field for those with the right skills and training.

What are some common challenges faced by full-time SUAS pilots, and how can they be addressed?

Full-time SUAS (Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems) pilots often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing regulations, weather variability, and the need to adapt to diverse mission requirements. Staying updated on FAA guidelines and local airspace restrictions is essential to ensure compliance. Additionally, SUAS pilots must be prepared to troubleshoot technical issues in the field and maintain clear communication with team members, such as data analysts or project managers, to ensure mission objectives are met safely and efficiently. Continued training and joining professional networks can help pilots stay ahead in this dynamic field.

What is the difference between Full Time Suas Pilot vs Part Time Suas Pilot?

AspectFull Time Suas PilotPart Time Suas Pilot
CertificationsRequired (e.g., FAA Part 107, remote pilot certificate)Required (same as full time)
Work HoursTypically 40+ hours/weekFewer hours, flexible schedule
Work EnvironmentConsistent, full-time employmentProject-based or occasional flights
Employer UsageFull-time drone service providers, companiesFreelance, part-time clients, or seasonal work

The main difference between a Full Time Suas Pilot and a Part Time Suas Pilot lies in work hours and employment status. Full Time Suas Pilots work regular hours with consistent employment, while Part Time Suas Pilots have flexible schedules and work on a project basis. Both roles require the same certifications and skills, but the commitment level varies.

Can I make a living as a drone pilot?

Full Time SUAS Pilots can earn a living by providing drone services such as aerial photography, inspections, and surveying to various industries. Success depends on skills, experience, certifications, and building a client base, with many pilots working as freelancers or for companies. Income varies widely based on location, workload, and specialization.

Do pilots make $400 an hour?

Full-time SUAS pilots typically do not earn $400 an hour, as their pay rates are generally lower and depend on experience, certification, and the type of UAV operations. Most commercial drone pilots earn between $20 and $100 per hour, with higher rates possible for specialized or highly experienced operators. Salaries can vary based on industry, location, and project complexity.

What are Full Time SUAS Pilots?

Full Time SUAS Pilots are professionals who operate Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (SUAS), commonly known as drones, as their primary occupation. They are responsible for planning, executing, and managing drone flights for various purposes such as aerial photography, mapping, inspections, and surveillance. These pilots must adhere to aviation regulations, ensure the safety of the aircraft and people, and often analyze and process collected data. Full Time SUAS Pilots typically work for companies in industries like agriculture, construction, public safety, or media, and may also handle maintenance and troubleshooting of their equipment.

How much does a UAS pilot make?

A full-time UAS (Unmanned Aerial Systems) pilot typically earns between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, certification, and industry. Salaries can vary based on the complexity of drone operations, location, and employer requirements such as FAA Part 107 certification.
More about Full Time Suas Pilot jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Suas Pilot jobs? The most popular types of Suas Pilot jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Full Time Suas Pilot jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Full Time Suas Pilot jobs are:
Infographic showing various Full Time Suas Pilot job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 98% Full Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.
sUAS Pilot

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Westwood Professional Services rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

85th of 357 rated engineering


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
sUAS Pilot
Westwood Professional Services, Inc.
Westwood Professional Services, Inc. is seeking a sUAS Pilot join our team in our Dallas, Plano, or Fort Worth office. Westwood's growing Geospatial Department provides professional-level products to its clients, leveraging the latest in industry technology. Westwood has a highly experienced and dynamic team of individuals dedicated to providing high-level professional services to our clients.
Requirements
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Represent Westwood in a professional demeanor in all public and client interactions.
  • Safely and efficiently conduct sUAS missions across the US.
  • Ensure all flights comply with FAA regulations, internal policies, and client standards.
  • Establish survey-grade project control using Trimble GNSS equipment.
  • Master new sUAS, sensors, and software.
  • Maintain productive working relationships with all clients and associates.
  • Ensure proper maintenance and upkeep of all assigned equipment and vehicles.
  • Ability and desire to train additional staff.
  • Take ownership of the position and contribute to the furthering of the team's mission.
  • Review/QC flight plans and various collected data sets in the field as needed before leaving the project.

Physical Requirements
  • Physically mobile in and around field site assignments
  • Ability to carry equipment and supplies in remote, rural or urban surroundings
  • Ability to lift 50 pounds and walk long distances

Preferred Experience
  • 100+ verifiable hours of commercial flight systems experience
  • 3+ years' experience with professional-level sUAS systems and project support.
  • Advanced photography knowledge
  • Traditional photogrammetric understanding/experience
  • LiDAR and or general remote sensing understanding/experience
  • An Associate's Degree in Surveying, Engineering Technology, or related area of study
  • ASPRS Certification or other industry-recognized certifications

Required Experience
  • FAA Part 107 certification with 50+ verifiable hours of commercial flight systems experience.
  • 1+ years' experience with professional level sUAS systems and project support.
  • Ability to perform in a fast-paced environment that is in a growth mode.
  • Ability to operate for production activities one or more of the following software platforms; AutoCAD Civil 3D, MicroStation, Topo DOT, Terrasolid, TBC.
  • Must be able to operate GPS in both static and RTK modes for survey activities
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Must be able to operate a motor vehicle with a valid license and clean driving history
  • Must be able perform tasks and solve problems with a high degree of independence
  • Ability to travel for extended periods with sometimes little notice (must have the capability of self-funding the total amount of expenses until reimbursement can be disbursed)

About Westwood Professional Services, Inc. (Westwood)
At Westwood, our purpose is to create a better world for people through our work. We transform the energy grid, design resilient infrastructure, and develop communities that will flourish today and for future generations. With over 50 years of experience and a legacy of innovation, we stand at the forefront of our industry, dedicated to understanding the unique needs of the markets we serve.
Our approach revolves around people. We are committed to building a culture that attracts, retains, and develops high performers. Our team values relationships, innovation, dedication, initiative, and growth. We believe fostering a collaborative "One Team" mentality yields superior outcomes in everything we do.
We customize our technical capabilities and geographic reach to meet our clients where they are and help them realize their vision.
We are partners in our clients' success, driving to provide solutions that make a lasting difference. Safety, sustainability, and operational excellence are not just facets of our work; they are intrinsic to our identity, guiding every decision we make.
We are deeply invested in the communities we serve. Through our projects and giving-back initiatives, we enrich the lives of those we serve, engage others within our industry, and create a lasting impact on communities around the world. To us, success transcends the completion of projects; it is reflected in the lives we have positively impacted by our work.
Join us in creating a better world.
In 2024, Zweig Group ranked Westwood nationally at #13 and #40, respectively, on its Hot Firms and Best Firms to Work for lists. Zweig also awarded Westwood one national 1st place award for Marketing Excellence. Westwood was recently recognized as #83 in the ENR Top 500 Firms in 2024. The firm consistently ranks on the industry's top 25 lists and receives recognition for its involvement in award-winning projects nationwide.
Westwood provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. We believe that diverse backgrounds strengthen our business. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

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